Operations Management Graduate

About First Bus

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

The Programme

During our two-year Operations Management Graduate Programme, you’ll learn how to run our depots, lead our people and make a positive impact on the local communities we serve.

We know that great leaders need broad, well-rounded experience. That’s why our programme offers the opportunity to develop your leadership skills, gain hands-on operational experience and take on real responsibility from day one.

You’ll work within one of our operating businesses, with most of your programme based in that geographical area. You’ll also complete a six-month rotation in a different location, giving you the opportunity to experience the breadth of our FTSE 250 organisation and understand how different parts of the business operate.

How will the programme help you develop?

You’ll receive plenty of support throughout your journey, including a buddy, a mentor and dedicated managers who are invested in your development.

Our development programme is designed to give you the knowledge, skills and experience needed to become an effective manager and future leader. This will include:

• Our New Manager Programme, providing the fundamentals of people management.
• Four two-day graduate learning events, bringing you together with fellow graduates to develop your skills and knowledge.
• Regular learning sessions with subject matter experts, helping you build your understanding of the public transport industry and our business.
• Study support for your Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

You’ll also have the opportunity to gain your Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driving licence and spend time in customer-facing service roles, building a first-hand understanding of our operations and the passenger experience.

At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a first-line management role within the business, with a clear development pathway towards becoming an Operations Manager.

About You

We’re looking for people who are enthusiastic about leadership, enjoy solving problems and want to make a difference. You’ll need:

• A degree in any discipline, with a 2:2 or above, achieved in 2025 or 2026.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A passion for customer service and delivering a positive passenger experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Resilience and a positive approach to learning and development.
• The right to work in the UK.
• Previous work experience is desirable but not essential.

Application Process

Our recruitment process is designed to help us understand your strengths, potential and suitability for the programme.

• Online assessment – You’ll complete an online assessment through Arctic Shores, using interactive, game-based exercises to help us understand your behavioural strengths and potential.
• Microsoft Teams video interview – You’ll be invited to a video interview via Microsoft Teams, where we’ll learn more about your motivation for joining First Bus, your skills and your interest in the programme.
• Assessment centre – You’ll take part in an assessment centre, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths, problem-solving skills and potential to succeed on the programme. A final-stage interview may also follow the assessment centre.

Rewards

• Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents (cash back benefits, virtual GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice).
• EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support.
• Platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets.
• Discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service.
• Free bus pass.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Up to 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares.